Steerable laser probe

ABSTRACT

A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, a plurality of actuation controls of the handle, a flexible housing tube having a flexible housing tube distal end and a flexible housing tube proximal end, and an optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the flexible housing tube. An actuation of an actuation control of the plurality of actuation controls may gradually curve the flexible housing tube. A gradual curving of the flexible housing tube may gradually curve the optic fiber. An actuation of an actuation control of the plurality of actuation controls may gradually straighten the flexible housing tube. A gradual straightening of the flexible housing tube may gradually straighten the optic fiber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No.15/678,730, filed Aug. 16, 2017.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument, and, moreparticularly, to a steerable laser probe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide variety of ophthalmic procedures require a laser energy source.For example, ophthalmic surgeons may use laser photocoagulation to treatproliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy is a conditioncharacterized by the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retinathat grow into the vitreous humor. Ophthalmic surgeons may treat thiscondition by energizing a laser to cauterize portions of the retina toprevent the abnormal blood vessels from growing and hemorrhaging.

In order to increase the chances of a successful laser photocoagulationprocedure, it is important that a surgeon is able aim the laser at aplurality of targets within the eye, e.g., by guiding or moving thelaser from a first target to a second target within the eye. It is alsoimportant that the surgeon is able to easily control a movement of thelaser. For example, the surgeon must be able to easily direct a laserbeam by steering the beam to a first position aimed at a first target,guide the laser beam from the first position to a second position aimedat a second target, and hold the laser beam in the second position.Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical laser probe that can beeasily guided to a plurality of targets within the eye.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides a steerable laser probe. In one or moreembodiments, a steerable laser probe may comprise a handle having ahandle distal end and a handle proximal end, a plurality of actuationcontrols of the handle, a flexible housing tube having a flexiblehousing tube distal end and a flexible housing tube proximal end, and anoptic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the flexiblehousing tube. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control ofthe plurality of actuation controls may be configured to gradually curvethe flexible housing tube. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curvingof the flexible housing tube may be configured to gradually curve theoptic fiber. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control of theplurality of actuation controls may be configured to graduallystraighten the flexible housing tube. In one or more embodiments, agradual straightening of the flexible housing tube may be configured togradually straighten the optic fiber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages of the present invention may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicateidentical or functionally similar elements:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flexible housing tube;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flexible housing tube;

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly 100. FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of handleassembly 100. In one or more embodiments, handle assembly 100 maycomprise a handle end cap 105 having a handle end cap distal end 106 anda handle end cap proximal end 107, an actuation mechanism 110 having anactuation mechanism distal end 111 and an actuation mechanism proximalend 112, and a handle base 130 having a handle base distal end 131 and ahandle base proximal end 132. Illustratively, actuation mechanism 110may comprise a plurality of actuation controls 120. For example, eachactuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 maycomprise an actuation control distal end 121 and an actuation controlproximal end 122. In one or more embodiments, handle base 130 maycomprise a plurality of handle base limbs 133, a plurality of handlebase channels 134, and a handle end cap interface 135.

FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of handle assembly 100. Inone or more embodiments, handle assembly 100 may comprise a proximalchamber 140, a handle base housing 150, a handle base interface 155, anoptic fiber guide 160, an inner bore 170, optic fiber housing 175, anactuation mechanism guide 180, a pressure mechanism housing 185, and ahousing tube housing 190. Handle end cap 105, actuation mechanism 110,actuation control 120, and handle base 130 may be manufactured from anysuitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or fromany combination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 200. FIG.2A illustrates a side view of handle 200. In one or more embodiments,handle 200 may comprise a handle distal end 201, a handle proximal end202, and a plurality of actuation control guides 210. For example, eachactuation control guide 210 of a plurality of actuation control guides210 may comprise an actuation control guide distal end 211 and anactuation control guide proximal end 212. Illustratively, handle distalend 201 may comprise handle base distal end 131. In one or moreembodiments, handle proximal end 202 may comprise handle end capproximal end 107.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of handle 200.Illustratively, actuation mechanism 110 may be disposed within handleend cap 105 and handle base 130. In one or more embodiments, a portionof actuation mechanism 110 may be disposed within handle base housing150, e.g., actuation mechanism proximal end 112 may be disposed withinhandle base housing 150. Illustratively, a portion of actuationmechanism 110 may be disposed within actuation mechanism guide 180,e.g., actuation mechanism distal end 111 may be disposed withinactuation mechanism guide 180. In one or more embodiments, a portion ofhandle base 130 may be disposed within handle end cap 105, e.g., handlebase proximal end 132 may be disposed within handle end cap 105.Illustratively, a portion of handle base 130 may be disposed withinhandle base housing 150. In one or more embodiments, a portion of handlebase 130 may be disposed within handle base housing 150, e.g., handlebase proximal end 132 may be configured to interface with handle baseinterface 155. Illustratively, a portion of handle base 130 may bedisposed within handle base housing 150, e.g., handle end cap distal end106 may be configured to interface with handle end cap interface 135. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of handle base 130 may be fixedwithin a portion of handle end cap 105, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means. For example, a portion of handle base 130 maybe fixed within handle base housing 150, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means.

Illustratively, each actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 may be disposed within an actuation control guide 210 of aplurality of actuation control guides 210. In one or more embodiments,each actuation control guide 210 of a plurality of actuation controlguides 210 may comprise a handle base channel 134 of a plurality ofhandle base channels 134. In one or more embodiments, at least oneactuation control 120 may be configured to actuate within at least oneactuation control guide 210. Illustratively, each actuation control 120of a plurality of actuation controls 120 may be configured to actuatewithin an actuation control guide 210 of a plurality of actuationcontrol guides 210. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of aparticular actuation control 120 in a particular actuation control guide210 may be configured to actuate each actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120. In one or more embodiments,actuation controls 120 may be configured to actuate within actuationcontrol guides 210 in pairs or groups. Illustratively, an actuation offirst actuation control 120 within a first actuation control guide 210may be configured to actuate a second actuation control 120 within asecond actuation control guide 210.

In one or more embodiments, actuation mechanism 110 may be configured toactuate within actuation mechanism guide 180. For example, actuationmechanism guide 180 may comprise a lubricant configured to facilitate anactuation of actuation mechanism 110 within actuation mechanism guide180. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120 within anactuation control guide 210 may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 110, e.g., within actuation mechanism guide 180. In one ormore embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 towards anactuation control guide distal end 211, e.g., and away from an actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212, may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 110 towards handle distal end 201, e.g., and away from handleproximal end 202. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control120 towards an actuation control guide proximal end 212, e.g., and awayfrom an actuation control guide distal end 211, may be configured toactuate actuation mechanism towards handle proximal end 202, e.g., andaway from handle distal end 201.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may actuate actuation mechanism110 within actuation mechanism guide 180, e.g., by manipulating anactuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 whenhandle 200 is in a first rotational orientation. Illustratively, thesurgeon may rotate handle 200 and actuate actuation mechanism 110 withinactuation mechanism guide 180, e.g., by manipulating an actuationcontrol 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 when handle 200 isin a second rotational orientation. In one or more embodiments, thesurgeon may rotate handle 200 and actuate actuation mechanism 110 withinactuation mechanism guide 180, e.g., by manipulating an actuationcontrol 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 when handle 200 isin a third rotational orientation. Illustratively, a surgeon may actuateactuation mechanism 110 within actuation mechanism guide 180, e.g., bymanipulating an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 when handle 200 is in any rotational orientation of aplurality of rotational orientations.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a flexiblehousing tube distal end 301 and a flexible housing tube proximal end302. Flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from any suitablematerial, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from anycombination of suitable materials. Illustratively, flexible housing tube300 may comprise a shape memory material, e.g., Nitinol. In one or moreembodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from amaterial having an ultimate tensile strength between 700 and 1000 MPa.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from amaterial having ultimate tensile strength less than 700 MPa or greaterthan 1000 MPa. In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 maybe manufactured from a material having a modulus of elasticity between30 and 80 GPa. Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may bemanufactured from a material having a modulus of elasticity less than 30GPa or greater than 80 GPa.

In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may bemanufactured with dimensions suitable for performing microsurgicalprocedures, e.g., ophthalmic surgical procedures. Illustratively,flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured at gauge sizes commonlyused in ophthalmic surgical procedures, e.g., 23 gauge, 25 gauge, etc.In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may be configuredto be inserted in a cannula, e.g., a cannula used during an ophthalmicsurgical procedure. For example, one or more properties of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be optimized to reduce friction as flexible housingtube 300 is inserted into a cannula. In one or more embodiments, one ormore properties of flexible housing tube 300 may be optimized to reducefriction as flexible housing tube 300 is removed from a cannula.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may have an ultimate tensilestrength between 1000 MPa and 1100 MPa. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may have an ultimate tensile strength lessthan 1000 MPa or greater than 1100 MPa.

In one or more embodiments, an optic fiber 310 may be disposed withinflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprisean optic fiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312. Inone or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be configured to transmitlight, e.g., laser light. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may bedisposed within flexible housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end311 may be adjacent to flexible housing tube distal end 301. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portionof flexible housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 400. In one or more embodiments,steerable laser probe assembly 400 may comprise a handle 200, a flexiblehousing tube 300 having a flexible housing tube distal end 301 and aflexible housing tube proximal end 302, an optic fiber 310 having anoptic fiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312, and alight source interface 410. Illustratively, light source interface 410may be configured to interface with optic fiber 310, e.g., at opticfiber proximal end 312. In one or more embodiments, light sourceinterface 410 may comprise a standard light source connecter, e.g., anSMA connector.

Illustratively, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed to aportion of handle 200, e.g., flexible housing tube proximal end 302 maybe fixed to handle distal end 201. In one or more embodiments, a portionof flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed to a portion of handle 200,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively, aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be disposed within flexiblehousing tube housing 190, e.g., flexible housing tube proximal end 302may be disposed within flexible housing tube housing 190. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed withinflexible housing tube housing 190, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means. For example, flexible housing tube 300 may be fixedwithin flexible housing tube housing 190 by a press fit, a setscrew,etc.

In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be disposed in opticfiber guide 160, inner bore 170, optic fiber housing 175, actuationmechanism guide 180, flexible housing tube housing 190, and flexiblehousing tube 300. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed withinflexible housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end 311 may beadjacent to flexible housing tube distal end 301. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to aportion of actuation mechanism 110, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310may be fixed within optic fiber housing 175. In one or more embodiments,a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed within optic fiber housing175, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. For example, aportion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed within optic fiber housing 175,e.g., by a press fit, a setscrew, etc. Illustratively, a portion ofoptic fiber 310 may be fixed to actuation mechanism 110 and a portion ofoptic fiber 310 may be fixed to flexible housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end211, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a retraction of actuationmechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toretract optic fiber housing 175 relative to flexible housing tube 300.In one or more embodiments, a retraction of optic fiber housing 175relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to retract opticfiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, aportion of optic fiber 310 may be configured to resist a retraction ofoptic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portionof optic fiber 310 fixed to flexible housing tube 300 may be configuredto apply a force to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, an application of a force, e.g., a compressive force,to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compressa portion of flexible housing tube 300 causing flexible housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310.In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end211, may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310. For example,an actuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120, e.g., towards handle proximal end 202 and away from handledistal end 201, may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide distal end 211 and away from actuation control guide proximal end212, may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extension of actuationmechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toextend optic fiber housing 175 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of optic fiber housing 175relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend opticfiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, aportion of optic fiber 310 may be configured to facilitate an extensionof optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300, e.g., aportion of optic fiber 310 fixed to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housingtube 300. In one or more embodiments, a reduction of a force, e.g., acompressive force, applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 maybe configured to decompress a portion of flexible housing tube 300causing flexible housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of flexible housing tube 300 maybe configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 within anactuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guidedistal end 211 and away from actuation control guide proximal end 212,may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. For example,an actuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120, e.g., towards handle distal end 201 and away from handleproximal end 202, may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 5A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 500. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when optic fiber 310 is fullyextended relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, opticfiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when anactuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 is fullyextended relative to an actuation control guide proximal end 212. In oneor more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber500, e.g., when actuation mechanism 110 is fully extended relative tohandle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiberdistal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to flexible housingtube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises a straightoptic fiber 500.

FIG. 5B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 510. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 withinan actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end 211,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straightoptic fiber 500 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 510.Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120 within anactuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end 211,may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, a retraction of optic fiber 310 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an application of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualcurving of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310, e.g., from a straight optic fiber 500 to an opticfiber in a first curved position 510. Illustratively, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to flexiblehousing tube proximal end 302 at a first angle, e.g., when optic fiber310 comprises an optic fiber in a first curved position 510. In one ormore embodiments, the first angle may comprise any angle greater thanzero degrees. For example, the first angle may comprise a 45 degreeangle.

FIG. 5C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 520. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 withinan actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end 211,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a first curved position 510 to an optic fiber in a second curvedposition 520. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end211, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, a retraction of optic fiber 310 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an application of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualcurving of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a first curvedposition 510 to an optic fiber in a second curved position 520.Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 mayintersect a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302 at asecond angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in asecond curved position 520. In one or more embodiments, the second anglemay comprise any angle greater than the first angle. For example, thesecond angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 5D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 530. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 withinan actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end 211,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a second curved position 520 to an optic fiber in a third curvedposition 530. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end211, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, a retraction of optic fiber 310 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an application of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualcurving of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a second curvedposition 520 to an optic fiber in a third curved position 530.Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 mayintersect a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302 at athird angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in athird curved position 530. In one or more embodiments, the third anglemay comprise any angle greater than the second angle. For example, thethird angle may comprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 5E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 540. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 withinan actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end 211,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a third curved position 530 to an optic fiber in a fourth curvedposition 540. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guide distal end211, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, a retraction of optic fiber 310 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toapply a force to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an application of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress aportion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualcurving of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallycurve optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a third curvedposition 530 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 540.Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may beparallel to a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a fourth curvedposition 540.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a length that flexible housing tubedistal end 301 extends from handle distal end 201 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120 of a pluralityof actuation controls 120 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300to a particular curved position. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount ofactuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300may comprise a solid tube structure. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may comprise one or more apertures, e.g.,configured to vary a stiffness of flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a material comprising flexible housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120 configured to curve flexible housingtube 300 to a particular curved position. In one or more embodiments, astiffness of flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a bendradius of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a stiffness offlexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvatureof flexible housing tube 300, e.g., when flexible housing tube 300 is ina particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a geometry of actuation mechanism 110 may beadjusted to vary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120 configured to curve flexible housingtube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, a geometry ofactuation mechanism guide 180 may be adjusted to vary an amount ofactuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry ofhandle end cap 105 or a geometry of handle base 130 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120 of a pluralityof actuation controls 120 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300to a particular curved position. Illustratively, one or more locationswithin flexible housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber 310 may be fixed toa portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amountof actuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, an optic fiber sleeve may beconfigured to compress a portion of flexible housing tube 300. Forexample, an optic fiber sleeve may enclose a portion of optic fiber 310and the optic fiber sleeve may be fixed to actuation mechanism 110,e.g., the optic fiber sleeve may be fixed within optic fiber housing 175by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively, a portionof the optic fiber sleeve may be fixed to a portion of flexible housingtube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one ormore embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120 may be configured to retract anoptic fiber sleeve relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a retraction of an optic fiber sleeve relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to cause the optic fibersleeve to apply a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 causing flexible housing tube 300 to graduallycurve. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving of flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise a buffer, a claddingdisposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in the cladding. In one ormore embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical property of optic fiber 310.Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical layer of optic fiber 310, e.g.,the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curved portion of opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310. For example, at least a portion of opticfiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to an actuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality ofactuation controls 120. In one or more embodiments, a portion of asteerable laser probe, e.g., handle 200, may be marked in a mannerconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Forexample, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a markconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve,e.g., a curve less than 7.5 degrees, when an actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120 is fully extended relative to anactuation control guide proximal end 212. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to aretraction of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 relative to an actuation control guide proximal end 212.

In one or more embodiments, a steerable laser probe may comprise apressure mechanism configured to provide a force. Illustratively, apressure mechanism may be disposed within pressure mechanism housing185. For example, a pressure mechanism may be disposed within proximalchamber 140. In one or more embodiments, a pressure mechanism may beconfigured to provide a constant force. Illustratively, a pressuremechanism may be configured to provide a variable force. In one or moreembodiments, a pressure mechanism may be configured to provide aresistive force, e.g., to resist an extension of actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a pressuremechanism may be configured to provide a facilitating force, e.g., tofacilitate a retraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handleproximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, a pressure mechanism maybe configured to provide a resistive force, e.g., to resist a retractionof actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202.Illustratively, a pressure mechanism may be configured to provide afacilitating force, e.g., to facilitate an extension of actuationmechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, a pressure mechanism may comprise a spring or a coil.Illustratively, a pressure mechanism may comprise a pneumatic system orany system configured to provide a force.

In one or more embodiments, one or more actuation controls 120 may befixed together. For example, a first actuation control 120 may beconnected to a second actuation control 120 wherein an actuation of thefirst actuation control 120 is configured to actuate the secondactuation control 120 and an actuation of the second actuation control120 is configured to actuate the first actuation control 120.Illustratively, each actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120 may be connected wherein an actuation of a particularactuation control 120 is configured to actuate each actuation control120 of the plurality of actuation controls 120. In one or moreembodiments, each actuation control 120 may be connected to anotheractuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120, e.g., bya ring or any suitable structure wherein a surgeon may actuate eachactuation control 120 of the plurality of actuation controls 120 in anyrotational orientation of handle 200.

Illustratively, handle 200 may comprise one or more detents configuredto temporarily house an actuation control 120 of a plurality ofactuation controls 120. In one or more embodiments, an actuation controlguide 210 may comprise one or more detents configured to temporarily fixan actuation control 120 in a position relative to handle proximal end202. Illustratively, a surgeon may actuate an actuation control 120 of aplurality of actuation controls 120 into a detent of an actuationcontrol guide 210, e.g., to temporarily fix an actuation control 120 ina position relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, temporarily fixing an actuation control 120 of a pluralityof actuation controls 120 in a position relative to handle proximal end202 may be configured to temporarily fix flexible housing tube 300 in aparticular curved position. Illustratively, a surgeon may actuate anactuation control 120 out from a detent of an actuation control guide210, e.g., to adjust an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments,adjusting an amount of actuation of an actuation control 120 relative tohandle proximal end 202 may be configured to adjust a curvature offlexible housing tube 300.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 6A illustrates a fullycurved optic fiber 600. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when optic fiber 310 isfully retracted relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively,optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., whenan actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 isfully retracted relative to an actuation control guide proximal end 212.In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curvedoptic fiber 600, e.g., when actuation mechanism 110 is fully retractedrelative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to flexiblehousing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises afully curved optic fiber 600.

FIG. 6B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 610. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 120 within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 211 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 212, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from a fully curved optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in afirst partially straightened position 610. Illustratively, an actuationof an actuation control 120 within an actuation control guide 210, e.g.,towards actuation control guide distal end 211 and away from actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212, may be configured to extend actuationmechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend optic fiber 310relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extension ofoptic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configuredto reduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, areduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force, applied to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a decompression of a portionof flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straightenflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualstraightening of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from a fully curved opticfiber 600 to an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position610. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximalend 302 at a first partially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber310 comprises an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position610. Illustratively, the first partially straightened angle may compriseany angle less than 180 degrees. For example, the first partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 6C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 620. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 120 within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 211 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 212, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position610 to an optic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620.Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120 within anactuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation control guidedistal end 211 and away from actuation control guide proximal end 212,may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 110 relative to flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuationmechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toextend optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, an extension of optic fiber 310 relative to flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In oneor more embodiments, a reduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force,applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured todecompress a portion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, adecompression of a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten flexible housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, a gradual straightening of flexible housing tube 300may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a first partially straightened position 610 to an opticfiber in a second partially straightened position 620. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a secondpartially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620.Illustratively, the second partially straightened angle may comprise anyangle less than the first partially straightened angle. For example, thesecond partially straightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 6D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 630. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 120 within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 211 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 212, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 620 to an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 630. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide distal end 211 and away from actuation control guide proximal end212, may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to extend optic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, an extension of optic fiber 310 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied toa portion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of optic fiber310 fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In oneor more embodiments, a reduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force,applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured todecompress a portion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, adecompression of a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten flexible housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, a gradual straightening of flexible housing tube 300may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620 to an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 630. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a thirdpartially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a third partially straightened position 630.Illustratively, the third partially straightened angle may comprise anyangle less than the second partially straightened angle. For example,the third partially straightened angle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 6E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 640.In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 120within an actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuation controlguide distal end 211 and away from actuation control guide proximal end212, may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a third partially straightened position 630 to an opticfiber in a fully straightened position 640. Illustratively, an actuationof an actuation control 120 within an actuation control guide 210, e.g.,towards actuation control guide distal end 211 and away from actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212, may be configured to extend actuationmechanism 110 relative to flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend optic fiber 310relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extension ofoptic fiber 310 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configuredto reduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300,e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, areduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force, applied to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a decompression of a portionof flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straightenflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualstraightening of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in athird partially straightened position 630 to an optic fiber in a fullystraightened position 640. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to flexiblehousing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a fully straightened position 640.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 200 to orient flexible housing tube 300 in an orientationconfigured to cause a curvature of flexible housing tube 300 within theparticular transverse plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofactuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 120. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end311 at any target within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eyeby, e.g., rotating handle 200 to orient flexible housing tube 300 in anorientation configured to cause a curvature of flexible housing tube 300within the particular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying anamount of actuation of an actuation control 120 of a plurality ofactuation controls 120. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target within a particular frontalplane of the inner eye by, e.g., varying an amount of actuation of anactuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120 to orienta line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of theinner eye and rotating handle 200. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of theparticular transverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and theparticular frontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 200 and varying an amount of actuation of anactuation control 120 of a plurality of actuation controls 120. In oneor more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without increasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without decreasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly 700. FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of handleassembly 700. In one or more embodiments, handle assembly 700 maycomprise a handle end cap 705 having a handle end cap distal end 706 anda handle end cap proximal end 707, an actuation mechanism 710 having anactuation mechanism distal end 711 and an actuation mechanism proximalend 712, and a handle base 730 having a handle base distal end 731 and ahandle base proximal end 732. Illustratively, actuation mechanism 710may comprise a plurality of actuation controls 720. For example, eachactuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 maycomprise an actuation control distal end 721 and an actuation controlproximal end 722. In one or more embodiments, handle base 730 maycomprise a plurality of handle base limbs 733, a plurality of handlebase channels 734, and a handle end cap interface 735.

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of handle assembly 700. Inone or more embodiments, handle assembly 700 may comprise a proximalchamber 740, a handle base housing 750, a handle base interface 755, anoptic fiber guide 760, an inner bore 770, cable housing 775, anactuation mechanism guide 780, a pressure mechanism housing 785, and ahousing tube housing 790. Handle end cap 705, actuation mechanism 710,actuation control 720, and handle base 730 may be manufactured from anysuitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or fromany combination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 800. FIG.8A illustrates a side view of handle 800. In one or more embodiments,handle 800 may comprise a handle distal end 801, a handle proximal end802, and a plurality of actuation control guides 810. For example, eachactuation control guide 810 of a plurality of actuation control guides810 may comprise an actuation control guide distal end 811 and anactuation control guide proximal end 812. Illustratively, handle distalend 801 may comprise handle base distal end 731. In one or moreembodiments, handle proximal end 802 may comprise handle end capproximal end 707.

FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of handle 800.Illustratively, actuation mechanism 710 may be disposed within handleend cap 705 and handle base 730. In one or more embodiments, a portionof actuation mechanism 710 may be disposed within handle base housing750, e.g., actuation mechanism proximal end 712 may be disposed withinhandle base housing 750. Illustratively, a portion of actuationmechanism 710 may be disposed within actuation mechanism guide 780,e.g., actuation mechanism distal end 711 may be disposed withinactuation mechanism guide 780. In one or more embodiments, a portion ofhandle base 730 may be disposed within handle end cap 705, e.g., handlebase proximal end 732 may be disposed within handle end cap 705.Illustratively, a portion of handle base 730 may be disposed withinhandle base housing 750. In one or more embodiments, a portion of handlebase 730 may be disposed within handle base housing 750, e.g., handlebase proximal end 732 may be configured to interface with handle baseinterface 755. Illustratively, a portion of handle base 730 may bedisposed within handle base housing 750, e.g., handle end cap distal end706 may be configured to interface with handle end cap interface 735. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of handle base 730 may be fixedwithin a portion of handle end cap 705, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means. For example, a portion of handle base 730 maybe fixed within handle base housing 750, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means.

Illustratively, each actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 may be disposed within an actuation control guide 810 of aplurality of actuation control guides 810. In one or more embodiments,each actuation control guide 810 of a plurality of actuation controlguides 810 may comprise a handle base channel 734 of a plurality ofhandle base channels 734. In one or more embodiments, at least oneactuation control 720 may be configured to actuate within at least oneactuation control guide 810. Illustratively, each actuation control 720of a plurality of actuation controls 720 may be configured to actuatewithin an actuation control guide 810 of a plurality of actuationcontrol guides 810. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of aparticular actuation control 720 in a particular actuation control guide810 may be configured to actuate each actuation control 720 of aplurality of actuation controls 720. In one or more embodiments,actuation controls 720 may be configured to actuate within actuationcontrol guides 810 in pairs or groups. Illustratively, an actuation offirst actuation control 720 within a first actuation control guide 810may be configured to actuate a second actuation control 720 within asecond actuation control guide 810.

In one or more embodiments, actuation mechanism 710 may be configured toactuate within actuation mechanism guide 780. For example, actuationmechanism guide 780 may comprise a lubricant configured to facilitate anactuation of actuation mechanism 710 within actuation mechanism guide780. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720 within anactuation control guide 810 may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 710, e.g., within actuation mechanism guide 780. In one ormore embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 towards anactuation control guide distal end 811, e.g., and away from an actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812, may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 710 towards handle distal end 801, e.g., and away from handleproximal end 802. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control720 towards an actuation control guide proximal end 812, e.g., and awayfrom an actuation control guide distal end 811, may be configured toactuate actuation mechanism towards handle proximal end 802, e.g., andaway from handle distal end 801.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may actuate actuation mechanism710 within actuation mechanism guide 780, e.g., by manipulating anactuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 whenhandle 800 is in a first rotational orientation. Illustratively, thesurgeon may rotate handle 800 and actuate actuation mechanism 710 withinactuation mechanism guide 780, e.g., by manipulating an actuationcontrol 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 when handle 800 isin a second rotational orientation. In one or more embodiments, thesurgeon may rotate handle 800 and actuate actuation mechanism 710 withinactuation mechanism guide 780, e.g., by manipulating an actuationcontrol 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 when handle 800 isin a third rotational orientation. Illustratively, a surgeon may actuateactuation mechanism 710 within actuation mechanism guide 780, e.g., bymanipulating an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 when handle 800 is in any rotational orientation of aplurality of rotational orientations.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a flexiblehousing tube distal end 301 and a flexible housing tube proximal end302. Flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from any suitablematerial, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from anycombination of suitable materials. Illustratively, flexible housing tube300 may comprise a shape memory material, e.g., Nitinol. In one or moreembodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from amaterial having an ultimate tensile strength between 700 and 1000 MPa.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured from amaterial having ultimate tensile strength less than 700 MPa or greaterthan 1000 MPa. In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 maybe manufactured from a material having a modulus of elasticity between30 and 80 GPa. Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may bemanufactured from a material having a modulus of elasticity less than 30GPa or greater than 80 GPa.

In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may bemanufactured with dimensions suitable for performing microsurgicalprocedures, e.g., ophthalmic surgical procedures. Illustratively,flexible housing tube 300 may be manufactured at gauge sizes commonlyused in ophthalmic surgical procedures, e.g., 23 gauge, 25 gauge, etc.In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may be configuredto be inserted in a cannula, e.g., a cannula used during an ophthalmicsurgical procedure. For example, one or more properties of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be optimized to reduce friction as flexible housingtube 300 is inserted into a cannula. In one or more embodiments, one ormore properties of flexible housing tube 300 may be optimized to reducefriction as flexible housing tube 300 is removed from a cannula.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may have an ultimate tensilestrength between 1000 MPa and 1100 MPa. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may have an ultimate tensile strength lessthan 1000 MPa or greater than 1100 MPa.

In one or more embodiments, an optic fiber 310 may be disposed withinflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprisean optic fiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312. Inone or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be configured to transmitlight, e.g., laser light. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may bedisposed within flexible housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end311 may be adjacent to flexible housing tube distal end 301. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portionof flexible housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means.

In one or more embodiments, a cable 910 may be disposed within flexiblehousing tube 300. Illustratively, cable 910 may comprise a cable distalend 911 and a cable proximal end 912. In one or more embodiments, cable910 may be disposed within flexible housing tube 300 wherein cabledistal end 911 may be adjacent to flexible housing tube distal end 301.Illustratively, a portion of cable 910 may be fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixationmeans.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 1000. In one or more embodiments,steerable laser probe assembly 1000 may comprise a handle 800, aflexible housing tube 300 having a flexible housing tube distal end 301and a flexible housing tube proximal end 302, an optic fiber 310 havingan optic fiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312, acable 910 having a cable distal end 911 and a cable proximal end 912,and a light source interface 410. Illustratively, light source interface410 may be configured to interface with optic fiber 310, e.g., at opticfiber proximal end 312. In one or more embodiments, light sourceinterface 410 may comprise a standard light source connecter, e.g., anSMA connector.

Illustratively, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed to aportion of handle 800, e.g., flexible housing tube proximal end 302 maybe fixed to handle distal end 801. In one or more embodiments, a portionof flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed to a portion of handle 800,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively, aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be disposed within flexiblehousing tube housing 790, e.g., flexible housing tube proximal end 302may be disposed within flexible housing tube housing 790. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be fixed withinflexible housing tube housing 790, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means. For example, flexible housing tube 300 may be fixedwithin flexible housing tube housing 790 by a press fit, a setscrew,etc.

In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be disposed in opticfiber guide 760, inner bore 770, cable housing 775, actuation mechanismguide 780, flexible housing tube housing 790, and flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within flexiblehousing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end 311 may be adjacent toflexible housing tube distal end 301. In one or more embodiments, aportion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portion of flexible housingtube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.

Illustratively, cable 910 may be disposed in cable housing 775,actuation mechanism guide 780, flexible housing tube housing 790, andflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a portion ofcable 910 may be fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g.,by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. Illustratively, a portionof cable 910 may be fixed to a portion of actuation mechanism 710, e.g.,cable proximal end 912 may be fixed to a portion of actuation mechanism710. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be fixedwithin cable housing 775, e.g., cable proximal end 912 may be fixedwithin cable housing 775. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910 may befixed within cable housing 775, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means. For example, a portion of cable 910 may be fixed withincable housing 775 by a press fit, a setscrew, etc.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end811, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a retraction of actuationmechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toretract cable housing 775 relative to flexible housing tube 300. In oneor more embodiments, a retraction of cable housing 775 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to retract cable 910relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a portion ofcable 910 may be configured to resist a retraction of cable 910 relativeto flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion offlexible housing tube 300 causing flexible housing tube 300 to graduallycurve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of flexible housing tube 300may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310. In one or moreembodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 within anactuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310. For example, anactuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720, e.g., towards handle proximal end 802 and away from handledistal end 801, may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide distal end 811 and away from actuation control guide proximal end812, may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extension of actuationmechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toextend cable housing 775 relative to flexible housing tube 300. In oneor more embodiments, an extension of cable housing 775 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend cable 910 relativeto flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910 maybe configured to facilitate an extension of cable 910 relative toflexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied toa portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, areduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force, applied to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion offlexible housing tube 300 causing flexible housing tube 300 to graduallystraighten. Illustratively, a gradual straightening of flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 withinan actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guidedistal end 811 and away from actuation control guide proximal end 812,may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310. For example,an actuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720, e.g., towards handle distal end 801 and away from handleproximal end 802, may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 11A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 1100. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., when cable 910 is fullyextended relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, opticfiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., when anactuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 is fullyextended relative to an actuation control guide proximal end 812. In oneor more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber1100, e.g., when actuation mechanism 710 is fully extended relative tohandle proximal end 802. Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiberdistal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to flexible housingtube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises a straightoptic fiber 1100.

FIG. 11B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 withinan actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straightoptic fiber 1100 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110.Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720 within anactuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a retraction of cable 910 relative to flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 310, e.g., from a straight optic fiber 1100 to an optic fiber in afirst curved position 1110. Illustratively, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to flexible housingtube proximal end 302 at a first angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110. In one or moreembodiments, the first angle may comprise any angle greater than zerodegrees. For example, the first angle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 11C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 1120. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 withinan actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a first curved position 1110 to an optic fiber in a second curvedposition 1120. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end811, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a retraction of cable 910 relative to flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110 toan optic fiber in a second curved position 1120. Illustratively, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent toflexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a second angle, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a second curved position1120. In one or more embodiments, the second angle may comprise anyangle greater than the first angle. For example, the second angle maycomprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 11D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 1130. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 withinan actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a second curved position 1120 to an optic fiber in a third curvedposition 1130. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end811, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a retraction of cable 910 relative to flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a second curved position 1120 toan optic fiber in a third curved position 1130. Illustratively, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent toflexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a third angle, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a third curved position1130. In one or more embodiments, the third angle may comprise any anglegreater than the second angle. For example, the third angle may comprisea 135 degree angle.

FIG. 11E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1140. Inone or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control 720 withinan actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guideproximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end 811,may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a third curved position 1130 to an optic fiber in a fourth curvedposition 1140. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide proximal end 812 and away from actuation control guide distal end811, may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to retract cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a retraction of cable 910 relative to flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force, e.g., a compressive force, to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to compress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a third curved position 1130 toan optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1140. Illustratively, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangentto flexible housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1140.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a length that flexible housing tubedistal end 301 extends from actuation mechanism distal end 711 may beadjusted to vary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 720 of aplurality of actuation controls 720 configured to curve flexible housingtube 300 to a particular curved position. In one or more embodiments, astiffness of flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amountof actuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300may comprise a solid tube structure. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may comprise one or more apertures, e.g.,configured to vary a stiffness of flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a material comprising flexible housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 720 of aplurality of actuation controls 720 configured to curve flexible housingtube 300 to a particular curved position. In one or more embodiments, astiffness of flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a bendradius of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a stiffness offlexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvatureof flexible housing tube 300, e.g., when flexible housing tube 300 is ina particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a geometry of actuation mechanism 710 may beadjusted to vary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 720 of aplurality of actuation controls 720 configured to curve flexible housingtube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, a geometry ofactuation mechanism guide 780 may be adjusted to vary an amount ofactuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry ofhandle end cap 705 or a geometry of handle base 730 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of an actuation control 720 of a pluralityof actuation controls 720 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300to a particular curved position. Illustratively, one or more locationswithin flexible housing tube 300 wherein cable 910 may be fixed to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amountof actuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer, a cladding disposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in thecladding. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical property ofoptic fiber 310. Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical layer of opticfiber 310, e.g., the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curvedportion of optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310. For example, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to an actuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality ofactuation controls 720. In one or more embodiments, a portion of asteerable laser probe, e.g., handle 800, may be marked in a mannerconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Forexample, a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a markconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve.Illustratively, flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve,e.g., a curve less than 7.5 degrees, when an actuation control 720 of aplurality of actuation controls 720 is fully extended relative to anactuation control guide proximal end 812. In one or more embodiments,flexible housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to aretraction of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 relative to an actuation control guide proximal end 812.

In one or more embodiments, a steerable laser probe may comprise apressure mechanism configured to provide a force. Illustratively, apressure mechanism may be disposed within pressure mechanism housing785. For example, a pressure mechanism may be disposed within proximalchamber 740. In one or more embodiments, a pressure mechanism may beconfigured to provide a constant force. Illustratively, a pressuremechanism may be configured to provide a variable force. In one or moreembodiments, a pressure mechanism may be configured to provide aresistive force, e.g., to resist an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802. Illustratively, a pressuremechanism may be configured to provide a facilitating force, e.g., tofacilitate a retraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handleproximal end 802. In one or more embodiments, a pressure mechanism maybe configured to provide a resistive force, e.g., to resist a retractionof actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802.Illustratively, a pressure mechanism may be configured to provide afacilitating force, e.g., to facilitate an extension of actuationmechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or moreembodiments, a pressure mechanism may comprise a spring or a coil.Illustratively, a pressure mechanism may comprise a pneumatic system orany system configured to provide a force.

In one or more embodiments, one or more actuation controls 720 may befixed together. For example, a first actuation control 720 may beconnected to a second actuation control 720 wherein an actuation of thefirst actuation control 720 is configured to actuate the secondactuation control 720 and an actuation of the second actuation control720 is configured to actuate the first actuation control 720.Illustratively, each actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720 may be connected wherein an actuation of a particularactuation control 720 is configured to actuate each actuation control720 of the plurality of actuation controls 720. In one or moreembodiments, each actuation control 720 may be connected to anotheractuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720, e.g., bya ring or any suitable structure wherein a surgeon may actuate eachactuation control 720 of the plurality of actuation controls 720 in anyrotational orientation of handle 800.

Illustratively, cable 910 may be fixed to flexible housing tube 300 at aplurality of fixation points, e.g., to vary one or more properties of asteerable laser probe. In one or more embodiments, a length of cable 910may be adjusted to vary an amount of retraction of an actuation control720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 relative to handle proximalend 802 configured to curve flexible housing tube 300 to a particularcurved position. Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may compriseone or more redundant cables 910. In one or more embodiments, one ormore redundant cables 910 may be configured to maintain a particularcurved position of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., in the event thatcable 910 breaks or fails. Illustratively, one or more redundant cables910 may be configured to maintain a particular curved position offlexible housing tube 300, e.g., in the event that a cable 910 fixationmeans fails. In one or more embodiments, one or more redundant cables910 may be configured to maintain a particular curved position offlexible housing tube 300, e.g., in the event that cable 910 is nolonger configured to maintain the particular curved position of flexiblehousing tube 300. Illustratively, one or more redundant cables 910 maybe configured to maintain a particular curved position of flexiblehousing tube 300 wherein cable 910 is also configured to maintain theparticular curved position of flexible housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, flexible housing tube 300 may comprise anaccess window configured to allow access to a portion cable 910.Illustratively, cable 910 may be fixed to a portion of flexible housingtube 300, e.g., by looping a portion of cable 910 through an aperture inflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, cable 910 may befixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., by a purelymechanical means. For example, cable 910 may be fixed to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 in a manner other than by an adhesive, a weld,etc. Illustratively, cable 910 may be fixed to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable 910 is configured to fail ata first applied failure force and a fixation means that fixes a portionof cable 910 to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 is configured tofail at a second applied failure force. In one or more embodiments, thesecond applied failure force may be greater than the first appliedfailure force.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 12A illustrates afully curved optic fiber 1200.

In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curvedoptic fiber 1200, e.g., when cable 910 is fully retracted relative toflexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprisea fully curved optic fiber 1200, e.g., when an actuation control 720 ofa plurality of actuation controls 720 is fully retracted relative to anactuation control guide proximal end 812. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1200, e.g., whenactuation mechanism 710 is fully retracted relative to handle proximalend 802. Illustratively, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311may be parallel to a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises a fully curved optic fiber1200.

FIG. 12B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 1210. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 720 within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 811 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 812, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from a fully curved optic fiber 1200 to an optic fiber in afirst partially straightened position 1210. Illustratively, an actuationof an actuation control 720 within an actuation control guide 810, e.g.,towards actuation control guide distal end 811 and away from actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812, may be configured to extend actuationmechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend cable 910 relativeto flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extension of cable 910relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce aforce applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portionof cable 910 fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housingtube 300. In one or more embodiments, a reduction of a force, e.g., acompressive force, applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300 maybe configured to decompress a portion of flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, a decompression of a portion of flexible housing tube300 may be configured to gradually straighten flexible housing tube 300.In one or more embodiments, a gradual straightening of flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310,e.g., from a fully curved optic fiber 1200 to an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 1210. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent toflexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a first partially straightenedangle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 1210. Illustratively, the firstpartially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than 180degrees. For example, the first partially straightened angle maycomprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 12C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 1220. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 720 within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 811 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 812, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position1210 to an optic fiber in a second partially straightened position 1220.Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720 within anactuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guidedistal end 811 and away from actuation control guide proximal end 812,may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 710 relative to flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuationmechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toextend cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively,an extension of cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housingtube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, areduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force, applied to a portion offlexible housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion offlexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, a decompression of a portionof flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straightenflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a gradualstraightening of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in afirst partially straightened position 1210 to an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 1220. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent toflexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a second partiallystraightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiberin a second partially straightened position 1220. Illustratively, thesecond partially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than thefirst partially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 12D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 1230. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuationcontrol 720 within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towardsactuation control guide distal end 811 and away from actuation controlguide proximal end 812, may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 310 from an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 1220 to an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 1230. Illustratively, an actuation of an actuation control 720within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuation controlguide distal end 811 and away from actuation control guide proximal end812, may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 710 relative toflexible housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to extend cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300.Illustratively, an extension of cable 910 relative to flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion offlexible housing tube 300, e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to aportion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to reduce a forceapplied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a reduction of a force, e.g., a compressive force, appliedto a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may be configured todecompress a portion of flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, adecompression of a portion of flexible housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten flexible housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, a gradual straightening of flexible housing tube 300may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 1220 to an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 1230. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end 302 at a thirdpartially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a third partially straightened position 1230.Illustratively, the third partially straightened angle may comprise anyangle less than the second partially straightened angle. For example,the third partially straightened angle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 12E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position1240. In one or more embodiments, an actuation of an actuation control720 within an actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuationcontrol guide distal end 811 and away from actuation control guideproximal end 812, may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310 from an optic fiber in a third partially straightened position 1230to an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 1240. Illustratively,an actuation of an actuation control 720 within an actuation controlguide 810, e.g., towards actuation control guide distal end 811 and awayfrom actuation control guide proximal end 812, may be configured toextend actuation mechanism 710 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured to extend cable910 relative to flexible housing tube 300. Illustratively, an extensionof cable 910 relative to flexible housing tube 300 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of flexible housing tube 300, e.g.,a portion of cable 910 fixed to a portion of flexible housing tube 300may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of flexiblehousing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a reduction of a force,e.g., a compressive force, applied to a portion of flexible housing tube300 may be configured to decompress a portion of flexible housing tube300. Illustratively, a decompression of a portion of flexible housingtube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten flexible housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, a gradual straightening of flexiblehousing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 1230 to an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 1240.In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311may be parallel to a line tangent to flexible housing tube proximal end302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a fullystraightened position 1240.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 800 to orient flexible housing tube 300 in an orientationconfigured to cause a curvature of flexible housing tube 300 within theparticular transverse plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofactuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality of actuationcontrols 720. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end311 at any target within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eyeby, e.g., rotating handle 800 to orient flexible housing tube 300 in anorientation configured to cause a curvature of flexible housing tube 300within the particular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying anamount of actuation of an actuation control 720 of a plurality ofactuation controls 720. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target within a particular frontalplane of the inner eye by, e.g., varying an amount of actuation of anactuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720 to orienta line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of theinner eye and rotating handle 800. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of theparticular transverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and theparticular frontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 800 and varying an amount of actuation of anactuation control 720 of a plurality of actuation controls 720. In oneor more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without increasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without decreasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.

The foregoing description has been directed to particular embodiments ofthis invention. It will be apparent; however, that other variations andmodifications may be made to the described embodiments, with theattainment of some or all of their advantages. Specifically, it shouldbe noted that the principles of the present invention may be implementedin any probe system. Furthermore, while this description has beenwritten in terms of a steerable laser probe, the teachings of thepresent invention are equally suitable to systems where thefunctionality of actuation may be employed. Therefore, it is the objectof the appended claims to cover all such variations and modifications ascome within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An ophthalmic laser probe comprising: a handlehaving a handle distal end and a handle proximal end; an actuationmechanism guide of the handle; an actuation mechanism having anactuation mechanism distal end and an actuation mechanism proximal endwherein the actuation mechanism is disposed in the actuation mechanismguide and wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to actuate inthe actuation mechanism guide; an actuation control guide of the handlehaving an actuation control guide distal end and an actuation controlguide proximal end; an actuation control of the actuation mechanismhaving an actuation control distal end and an actuation control proximalend wherein the actuation control is disposed in the actuation controlguide; a single housing tube having a housing tube distal end and ahousing tube proximal end wherein the housing tube proximal end isdisposed in the handle and wherein the housing tube has dimensionsconfigured for performing ophthalmic surgery; an optic fiber having anoptic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end wherein the opticfiber is disposed in the handle, the actuation mechanism, and thehousing tube wherein the optic fiber distal end is adjacent to thehousing tube distal end and wherein a first actuation of the actuationcontrol in the actuation control guide is configured to actuate theactuation mechanism, apply a compressive force to a portion of thehousing tube, compress the portion of the housing tube, curve thehousing tube, and curve the optic fiber; a buffer of the optic fiberconfigured to protect an optical property of the optic fiber; and an SMAconnector configured to interface with the optic fiber proximal end. 2.The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein the first actuation of theactuation control in the actuation control guide is configured to curvethe housing tube up to 45 degrees.
 3. The ophthalmic laser probe ofclaim 1 wherein the first actuation of the actuation control in theactuation control guide is configured to curve the optic fiber up to 45degrees.
 4. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein the firstactuation of the actuation control in the actuation control guide isconfigured to curve the housing tube more than 45 degrees.
 5. Theophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein the first actuation of theactuation control in the actuation control guide is configured to curvethe optic fiber more than 45 degrees.
 6. The ophthalmic laser probe ofclaim 1 wherein the housing tube is manufactured from a material havingan ultimate tensile strength in a range of 700 to 1000 MPa.
 7. Theophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein the housing tube ismanufactured from a material having a modulus of elasticity in a rangeof 30 to 80 GPa.
 8. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein thefirst actuation of the actuation control in the actuation control guideis configured to curve the housing tube within an eye.
 9. The ophthalmiclaser probe of claim 8 wherein the first actuation of the actuationcontrol in the actuation control guide is configured to curve thehousing tube within the eye without increasing a length of theophthalmic laser probe within the eye.
 10. The ophthalmic laser probe ofclaim 8 wherein the first actuation of the actuation control in theactuation control guide is configured to curve the housing tube withinthe eye without decreasing a length of the ophthalmic laser probe withinthe eye.
 11. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein a secondactuation of the actuation control in the actuation control guide isconfigured to straighten the optic fiber.
 12. The ophthalmic laser probeof claim 1 wherein a second actuation of the actuation control in theactuation control guide is configured to straighten the housing tube.13. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein a second actuation ofthe actuation control in the actuation control guide is configured toreduce the compressive force applied to the portion of the housing tube.14. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 1 wherein a second actuation ofthe actuation control in the actuation control guide is configured todecompress the portion of the housing tube.
 15. The ophthalmic laserprobe of claim 1 further comprising: a cable having a cable distal endand a cable proximal end wherein the cable is disposed in the housingtube and a cable housing of the actuation mechanism.
 16. An ophthalmiclaser probe comprising: a handle having a handle distal end and a handleproximal end; an actuation mechanism guide of the handle; an actuationmechanism having an actuation mechanism distal end and an actuationmechanism proximal end wherein the actuation mechanism is disposed inthe actuation mechanism guide and wherein the actuation mechanism isconfigured to actuate in the actuation mechanism guide; an actuationcontrol guide of the handle having an actuation control guide distal endand an actuation control guide proximal end; an actuation control of theactuation mechanism having an actuation control distal end and anactuation control proximal end wherein the actuation control is disposedin the actuation control guide; a single housing tube having a housingtube distal end and a housing tube proximal end wherein the housing tubeproximal end is disposed in the handle and wherein the housing tube hasdimensions configured for performing ophthalmic surgery; an optic fiberhaving an optic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end whereinthe optic fiber is disposed in the handle, the actuation mechanism, andthe housing tube wherein the optic fiber distal end is adjacent to thehousing tube distal end and wherein a first actuation of the actuationcontrol in the actuation control guide is configured to actuate theactuation mechanism, reduce a compressive force applied to a portion ofthe housing tube, decompress the portion of the housing tube, straightenthe housing tube, and straighten the optic fiber; a buffer of the opticfiber configured to protect an optical property of the optic fiber; andan SMA connector configured to interface with the optic fiber proximalend.
 17. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 16 wherein a secondactuation of the actuation control in the actuation control guide isconfigured to curve the optic fiber.
 18. The ophthalmic laser probe ofclaim 16 wherein a second actuation of the actuation control in theactuation control guide is configured to curve the housing tube.
 19. Theophthalmic laser probe of claim 16 wherein the housing tube ismanufactured from a material having an ultimate tensile strength in arange of 700 to 1000 MPa.
 20. The ophthalmic laser probe of claim 16wherein the housing tube is manufactured from a material having amodulus of elasticity in a range of 30 to 80 GPa.